New Zealand as a study destination provides lot of benefits to international students, with a lower cost of education, a world-class education system, lenient visa criteria, and safety being the highlighting points for International students. New Zealand is also a tourist heaven, with a landscape that has been featured in prominent movies around the world.

Students interested in pursuing their education in this country need to have a fair idea about How to Get Admission in New Zealand institutions and other necessary info that will help them make their decision and help them prepare as far as getting an entry into New Zealand is concerned. In this article, we will cover all the aspects of getting into New Zealand institutions and the admissions criteria for International students.

New Zealand is home to 8 Universities and 16 Institutes of Technology and Polytechnics (ITPs).

The Universities focus on academic programs, with many having multiple campuses located in different cities. There is no shortage of subjects offered at undergraduate, postgraduate and Doctoral levels. The fields of study range from science, commerce, the humanities, engineering, agriculture, medicine, etc.

The Institutes of Technology and Polytechnics offer professional education and vocational training that cover introductory courses, diplomas and degree programs. A qualification from an ITP is equivalent to a university degree but more stress is given on practical aspects of education with much-needed experience.

Some of the reputed Institutions for Higher education in New Zealand include University of Canterbury, University of Auckland, Auckland of Technology, Victoria University of Wellington, Otago Polytechnic, Ara Institute of Canterbury (ARA), and Eastern Institute of Technology (EIT). 

It must be kept in mind that the university and course shortlisting must be done according to profile of the student. It includes previous education or relevant work experience and must match or compliment the degree / course that the student wishes to take up in New Zealand institutions. This is recommended from the point of view of getting a New Zealand Study Visa. Having a course tailored to your profile also provides the additional advantage of better understanding the advanced concepts in the field of specialization.

Other factors to be taken into account before selecting the institution and program include location, campus culture, types of majors offered, faculty, proximity to industries, etc.

Each university or institute has its own specific admissions criteria which is based on:

1. Higher secondary (12th) Score

2. Bachelor’s score if applying for Master’s Program

3.English Language Proficiency Test (IELTS/ TOEFL) Score

Additionally, you may need to provide a Statement of Purpose and 2 Letters of Recommendation as well.

You must also provide any certificates of national/ international merit that you may have been awarded, which might improve your chances of getting a University scholarship/tuition fee waiver for your Study in New Zealand.

There is no application fees to apply to the institutions of New Zealand.

The online application form for your shortlisted university/institute must be filled accurately, and all the required documents must be attached. There are no application deadlines as such but students need to apply well in advance to receive scholarships as also leave enough time to process their visas.

There are two major intakes for most institutions - February and July. However, some Institutions may also have additional intakes almost every month. You must always keep track of the intakes that you are targeting and plan accordingly. Once you have received an admit, you may arrange your finances and apply for the visa.